In an electrifying showcase of skill and resilience, Team Lagos has secured its spot in both the men’s and women’s football events at the 2025 National Sports Festival, Gateway 2025.
Competing at the South West Zonal Eliminations Ball Games in Ibadan, Lagos faced stiff opposition but proved once again why they remain a dominant force in Nigerian football.
A Nail-Biting Journey in the Women’s Category
The road to qualification was anything but easy for the Lagos women’s team. A 1-0 victory over Team Oyo gave them the crucial edge needed to finish second in their group and punch their ticket to the National Festival.
However, the journey had its setbacks—a 1-2 defeat to Team Osun left their fate uncertain. It all came down to the final group match, where a 2-2 draw between Oyo and Osun sealed Lagos’ place in Gateway 2025. With 3 points, Lagos advanced alongside Osun, who topped the group with 4 points, while the hosts were left behind with just 1 point.
High Stakes in the Men’s Category
If the women’s road to qualification was dramatic, the men’s team faced an even more intense battle. Locked in a highly competitive group, they needed grit and composure to rise to the top with 5 points.
Their campaign kicked off with a hard-fought draw against Team Ekiti, setting the stage for a do-or-die encounter against Team Ondo. A crucial victory over Ondo secured 3 points, and heading into their final match against the hosts, Lagos knew a draw would suffice. With a 1-1 stalemate, they sealed their qualification.
Team Ondo also scraped through, finishing second in the group after holding off Team Ekiti, who needed a win but fell short.
With both teams now officially through to Gateway 2025, Team Lagos reaffirms its reputation as a powerhouse in Nigerian football. As preparations begin for the National Sports Festival, anticipation is building—will Lagos bring home the glory?
